NABARD Norms Post Harvest Storage

NABARD Norms Post Harvest Storage

ONION STORAGE STRUCTURES

Introduction:-

India is one of the second largest producers of onion in the world second only to China, accounting for 16 percent of total area under cultivation in the world and 10 percent Most of the onion produced in India comes from the state of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat and Haryana of total production.

The onion bulbs are generally stored from May to November for a period of four to six months. However, 50-90 per cent storage losses are recorded depending upon genotype and storage conditions. The total storage losses are comprised of physiological loss in weight (PLW) i.e. moisture loss and shrinkage (30-40%), rotting (20-30%) and sprouting (20-40%).

Main factors which influence onion storage:-

• With time, sprouting and internal root development proceed.
• Sprouting and internal root development change bulb shape, tension of skins and crack the skins.
• Increase in respiration increases outputs of heat, CO2 and water loss from the bulb.
• Ventilation is needed to maintain humidity between 65-70% and lack of this often adversely affects the quality and quantity by increase in water loss and respiration.
• Ventilation is also needed to dissipate heat produced by bulbs.
• High humidity with high temperature favoursspread of pathogens within the store.

FINANCIAL PARAMETERS ADOPTED FOR WORKING  OUT   THE ECONOMICS OF A 25 MT ONION STORAGE STRUCTURE:-

Salient Features of Improved Storage Structures are:-

• Construction of structure on a raised platform to prevent moisture and dampness due to direct contact of bulbs with the
• Use of Mangalore tile type roof or other suitable materials to prevent built up of high inside temperature.
• Increased centre height and more slope for better air circulation and preventing humid micro climate inside
• Maintenance of stacking height to avoid pressure
• Periodical disinfection of structures and premises to check

Q.1 India’s Position in Onion production?

• 1^st
• 2^nd
• 3^rd
• 5^th

Q.2 Physiological loss in weight (PLW) comprises of according to NABARD Norms?

• moisture loss and shrinkage (30-40%)
• rotting (20-30%)
• sprouting (20-40%)
• All the above

Q.3 Humidity requirement for storage of onion in onion storage structure?

• 10-30%
• 40-50%
• 65-70%
• 85-90%

Q.4 Average life span of onion storage structure constructed under NABARD Norms Post Harvest Storage ?

• 5 Years
• 10 Years
• 15 Years
• 20 Years

Q.5 Average cost of construction for onion storage?

• 4000 per MT
• 6000 per MT
• 8000 per MT
• 10000 per MT

Q.6 Average cost Handling, transport,  grading, sorting charges in onion storage according to NABARD Norms?

• Rs.1.00 per kg
• Rs.2.00 per kg
• Rs.3.00 per kg
• Rs.4.00 per kg

NABARD Norms Post Harvest Storage